Principal RF Engineer

Atomcomputing; Boulder (CO); On-site; USD 120,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Atom Computing is looking for a Principal RF Engineer to design and test RF signal hardware for quantum control in Boulder, Colorado. The role requires advanced knowledge and experience in RF design, alongside collaboration with multiple teams in a fast-paced environment.

The ideal candidate has an MS or PhD in Electrical Engineering and over 10 years of relevant professional experience. You will lead the development of RF subsystems and contribute to the advancement of quantum computing technologies.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in electronics and RF design.
• Proficiency with RF test equipment like VNAs and oscilloscopes.
• Experience in full design cycle from concept to board bring-up.

Responsibilities

• Design and validate RF signal hardware for quantum control.
• Develop RF subsystems from MHz to GHz frequencies.
• Contribute to technical proposals and reports.

Skills

RF and microwave test equipment proficiency

Python scripting

Collaboration skills

Problem-solving in fast-paced environments

Education

MS or PhD in Electrical Engineering or related field

Tools

Keysight ADS

Linux

Job description

At Atom Computing, we build quantum computers using arrays of optically trapped neutral atoms that will empower customers to achieve unprecedented computational breakthroughs. Join a world-class team of scientists, engineers, and business professionals to advance the state‑of‑the‑art in quantum computing.

Atom Computing is seeking a Principal RF Engineer to join our team to assist in the design, verification, and testing of custom assemblies that enable control of our quantum computer. This position is located in Boulder, Colorado, and will report to the Control Systems Manager.

Due to the need for collaboration with Atom’s theory, software, hardware and optics teams, this role is required to be in the office in Boulder at least 3 days per week.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and validate RF signal generation, distribution, and conditioning hardware used for quantum control and qubit manipulation.
• Architect RF subsystems operating from MHz to GHz frequencies to support quantum experiments and production systems.
• Develop RF chains including synthesizers, amplifiers, mixers, and filters.
• Simulate system performance in Keysight ADS and other RF modeling software to validate that this will meet the design requirements.
• Write scripts and simulations in order to inform RF design in Python or similar high‑level programming language.
• Lead RF packaging design efforts with a focus on manufacturability, reliability, and high‑volume production readiness.
• Contribute to the development of technical proposals, customer deliverables, and reports for external stakeholders.

Qualifications

• MS or PhD in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related technical field.
• At least 10 years of relevant postgraduate professional experience in electronics, RF design.
• Demonstrated proficiency with RF and microwave test equipment, including vector network analyzers (VNAs), spectrum analyzers, signal generators, oscilloscopes, power meters, and signal source analyzers for the characterization, integration, and debugging of RF hardware and prototype systems.
• Strong understanding of RF PCB design principles, including controlled impedance routing, grounding and shielding techniques, signal integrity, electromagnetic compatibility (EMC), and design‑for‑manufacturability best practices.
• Experience using scripting languages such as Python to automate RF measurements, instrument control test execution, data analysis, and performance characterization.
• Self‑motivated, adaptable, and effective in a fast‑paced startup environment, capable of driving RF development efforts through evolving requirements and technical uncertainty.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills with the ability to work across multidisciplinary teams including RF, hardware, software, systems, and quantum research engineers.
• Demonstrated interest in learning and applying quantum computing, atomic physics, or related scientific concepts to support the development of advanced RF control and measurement systems.
• Experience working in a Linux environment. Familiarity with scripting languages including Python, Bash, etc.
• Experience in a full design cycle, from concept and schematic capture through to layout, fabrication, and initial board bring‑up.
• Familiarity with RF design concepts, and/or software defined radio.